Religious leaders deliver Easter messages

Cyclone Debbie, terrorist attacks on churches and finding hope amid darkness were some of the themes touched on by Australia's Christian leaders in this year's Easter messages.

Adelaide Catholic Archbishop Philip Wilson says Cyclone Debbie demonstrated both the best and the worst of human behaviour and spirit, with residents turning up with buckets and mops to chip in to clean up despite abandoned homes having been looted.

"This contrast between people's capacity to do good and evil, and the hope that arises from despair, is very much a part of the Easter story of Christ's suffering, death and resurrection," he said.

Melbourne Coptic Bishop Anba Suriel said he experienced "emotional numbness" over news two Coptic churches in Egypt had been bombed during Palm Sunday services.

"Yet again, the Copts had our hearts broken, our spirits flattened and our wounds reopened. But we are not crushed. We are resilient people," he said.

Catholic Archbishop of Canberra and Goulburn Christopher Prowse also spoke of the Egyptian terror attack, saying the conversion of hearts from hatred to peace was vital.

Hobart Catholic Archbishop Julian Porteous spoke of finding "light that triumphs over the darkness", while Anglican Primate of Australia Philip Freier said Easter spoke throughout the ages to the condition of human despair.

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"Christian faith shows us the way in which we can share in Jesus' victory over all that pushes us to despair," he said.

National president of Australian Christian Churches Wayne Alcorn spoke of the two criminals who were crucified beside Jesus Christ, stating we are "all sinners in need of salvation".

Greek Orthodox Church Primate Stylianos Harkianakis said Easter is a time to be born anew, rendering past sins "void" through repentance.

Uniting Church of Victoria and Tasmania Moderator Sharon Hollis said she hoped Easter's message of hope shone more brightly through international tension, increased violence and the increasing social divides and injustices of Australia.